Best Beaches in Portugal

Enjoy the rocky cliffs and outcrops, but make sure to bring what you need as the one shop has erratic hours. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic at the top cliffs over looking the beautiful ocean.

This beach is great for people watching in the summer months as it draws big crowds due to its many restaurants, bars, and hotels. Whether you want to walk along the boardwalk, or rent a sun bed to catch some rays, this beach offers something for everyone. Nightlife is exciting here, with a casino and a number of night clubs.

Praia do Guincho is a stunning beach located on the Atlantic coast near Cascais and Estoril, Lisboa, Portugal. Renowned for its wild natural beauty, expansive golden sands, and powerful ocean waves, it offers visitors a dramatic seaside experience unlike typical sheltered beaches. The strong winds and consistent swell make it a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, particularly surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers, contributing to a vibrant and active beach atmosphere. The beach is backed by rugged cliffs and dunes, enhancing its pristine and untamed feel, while remaining easily accessible from the nearby towns of Cascais and Estoril.
Praia do Guincho is celebrated not only for its natural landscape but also for its cultural appeal, often featured in films and attracting a mix of locals, tourists, and adventure seekers. The beach exudes a laid-back yet dynamic vibe, with a blend of casual beachgoers and serious athletes drawn to its challenging waters. Its location within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park adds an ecological richness, with opportunity to enjoy both the sea and the surrounding protected natural environment.
This beach is also known for its excellent blend of natural conditions and visitor facilities, making it ideal for family outings, romantic escapes, and sporting events alike. The ambiance combines rustic charm with upscale touches in its nearby amenities and accommodations, ensuring a well-rounded beach destination that caters to diverse preferences.

Praia De Moledo in Barreiros, Galicia, Spain, is a picturesque beach offering a serene escape amidst natural beauty. Located in the northern part of Spain, it's known for its tranquility and scenic views. The beach is a great spot for those seeking relaxation and a mix of leisure activities.

The surrounding area offers opportunities for exploring local culture and enjoying traditional Galician cuisine. While specific details about the beach itself are limited, it's part of a region renowned for its stunning landscapes and coastal attractions.

Visitors can enjoy the local ambiance and take part in water activities, though detailed information about specific activities at Praia De Moledo is not readily available.

Praia de Carcavelos is one of the most popular beaches off the coast of Lisbon. Mainly due to its proximity to the city, Praia de Carcavelos can get very crowded on weekends during the summer months. Equipped with all facilities, this beach is also close to many public transportation routes that make it even more accessible. With its golden sand, Praia de Carcavelos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lisbon.

Praia dos Ingleses is a charming beach located in the upscale Foz do Douro district of Porto, Portugal, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean.
It features a largely sandy shore with rocky outcrops at the edges, offering picturesque views and a lively atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists.
While the beach is modest in size, around 200 meters long, its vibrant promenade is lined with cafés and beach bars that stay open late, making it a social hub well beyond daylight hours.
The Atlantic's waves bring energy to the beach, appealing to surfers and water sports enthusiasts, though the waters can be wavy and less ideal for casual swimmers.
Despite some skepticism about water quality due to nearby river and industrial influences, the beach maintains Blue Flag status and remains a popular spot for sunbathing, people-watching, and seaside relaxation with a distinctly Porto vibe.
In the evening, Praia dos Ingleses transforms into a romantic and lively setting where visitors can enjoy local culture and nightlife along the coastal promenade.

Praia de Matosinhos is a vibrant beach in Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal. It is renowned for its wide golden sands and excellent surfing conditions, thanks to the Atlantic's powerful waves. The beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere with many bars and cafes along its promenade. While it is situated near a busy fishing harbor and industrial port, the area is rich with amenities for visitors. The beach is easily accessible by both metro and bus, making it a convenient getaway from Porto.
The setting is not the most scenic due to its location next to the port, but the beach itself offers soft sands, which are softer than other nearby beaches like those in Foz. Matosinhos also boasts a variety of seafood restaurants, serving fresh local catches.
The beach attracts a range of ages and nationalities and is suitable for families, surfers, and those looking to relax or enjoy water activities.

Praia da Luz is a beautiful beach that is highly popular among both tourists and locals. This beach is surrounded by many cafés, restaurants, and hotels. Along the boardwalk that stretches behind the beach, there are many local vendors and artists displaying their work. It is easy to see why many families choose this for their preferred getaway-- the many resorts surrounding Praia da Luz provide all amenities and are welcoming towards families and children of all ages.

Praia do Castelo is a small, rocky beach that serves a niche crowd. Those looking for an authentic Portuguese beach experience featuring pristine sand, blue and clear waters, and local beachside restaurant will love this beach. There is plenty of room for all as this beach is usually not very crowded.

Praia Do Carvalhal is a stunning beach located near Grandola in the Setubal district of Portugal, nestled along the Alentejo coast. Its unique charm lies in the combination of golden sandy shores backed by lush pine forests and tranquil rice paddies, providing a scenic and peaceful setting away from urban bustle. Visitors are often drawn to its natural beauty and the relaxing ambiance, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a serene coastal escape.

The beach is well-known for its clean environment and excellent conditions for swimming, surfing, and other water activities, making it a versatile spot for beachgoers of all kinds. The atmosphere ranges from laid-back during the day to a lively scene in the evenings, with several nearby establishments offering places to dine and unwind. The access to the beach is scenic, with a road passing through the pine woods and rice fields, enhancing the natural vibe of the location.

Its blend of nature and leisure makes Praia Do Carvalhal an appealing destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. The beach balances the peacefulness of a hidden gem with the convenience of accessible facilities and a welcoming community spirit, ensuring a memorable seaside experience.

Praia do Barril is a picturesque beach located near Tavira in Portugal's Algarve region, renowned for its golden sands and calm waters.
The beach is part of the Ilha de Tavira and accessible via a scenic wooden bridge or miniature train, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Visitors often highlight the laid-back atmosphere, family-friendly environment, and remnants of its tuna-fishing past, including the anchor cemetery, a unique attraction symbolizing the area's maritime heritage.

Praia de Odeceixe Mar is a beach within the municipality of Aljezur, situated 2.1 miles west of the village of Odeceixe. The drive to this beach is truly scenic and the scenery does not stop once the beach is reached-- Praia de Odeceixe Mar is surrounded by tall cliffs that shelters its visitors. Praia de Odeceixe Mae is a very clean and safe beach, making it perfect for enjoying on a sunny day.

Praia Baleal, located in the municipality of Ferrel, Leiria, is a renowned beach destination in Portugal. It is known for its scenic beauty and is particularly popular among surfers due to its consistent waves. The beach offers a laid-back and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for both relaxation and outdoor activities. The surrounding area is dotted with charming cafes, restaurants, and accommodations, catering to different tastes and preferences. The nearby city of Peniche provides additional amenities and attractions, including restaurants offering a wide range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
Praia Baleal is also a hotspot for beach parties and events during the summer, adding to its lively vibe. Visitors can enjoy beautiful sunsets, participate in water sports, or simply unwind by the sea.
The beach's proximity to the historic town of Peniche ensures that visitors have access to historical sites, shopping, and a broader selection of dining options.

This beach is known for its convenience. There is a road that takes you directly to a nearby parking lot, where a restaurant and bar await you. There are rentals available on the beach. The sand is perfectly clean and the water clear!

Praia Das Furnas is located in Raposeira, Faro, Portugal, offering a serene beach experience with its picturesque surroundings. The beach is part of the Algarve region, known for its golden sand and rock formations. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
The beach is nestled in a scenic area, providing opportunities for photography and hiking. While it is not bustling with loud activities, it offers a peaceful getaway from the urban noise.
The nearby towns provide access to amenities and attractions for those looking for more than a beachside experience.

Praia do Beliche is a stunning beach nestled between the Sagres Promontory and Cape St. Vincent on Portugal's western Algarve coast, often described as a beach at the 'end of the world' due to its dramatic location[3]. Framed by 40-meter cliffs, this sheltered golden-sand cove offers breathtaking sunset views and a mix of relaxed sunbathing and adventurous surfing[2][4]. The beach’s remote yet accessible vibe appeals to families, surfers, and nature lovers, with its quieter northern section occasionally used for nude sunbathing[4][5].
Accessible via a steep 100-step descent, Praia do Beliche balances rugged natural beauty with basic amenities, including a cliff-top café and lifeguard supervision during peak seasons[2][4]. Its consistent Atlantic swell attracts surfers, while its sheltered position makes it ideal for sunbathing away from strong winds[2][3].

Praia do Telheiro is a dramatic, secluded beach located near Sagres in the Faro District of Portugal's Algarve region.
Known for its rugged cliffs, golden sands, and clear waters, this beach offers a wild, untouched beauty ideal for nature enthusiasts. Visitors often emphasize its peaceful atmosphere and striking geological formations, including unique sedimentary rock layers visible in the surrounding cliffs.
The beach's remote location makes it less accessible than others in the area, but its unspoiled charm and breathtaking views attract hikers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility.

Praia da Ponta Ruiva is a picturesque and wild beach located in the Sagres area of Portugal's Algarve region. It is situated near the famous Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe. The beach offers breathtaking natural views and is surrounded by rugged cliffs, making it a serene spot for nature lovers. The beach itself lacks amenities like restrooms or bars, but it provides a natural setting for relaxation and sunbathing.
Access to the beach requires a short walk from the car park, which can accommodate about 40 cars. The location is somewhat remote, and driving is the most convenient way to reach it. Visitors often choose to bring their own food and drinks, as local eateries are not immediately available nearby.
The area is known for its scenic landscapes and the nearby beaches like Praia do Castelejo, which are popular for surfing.

Meia Praia is a premier beach in Lagos, Portugal. It is a long beach that is great for walks along its soft sand. Families should be wary; while there are lifeguards in the western portion, the less crowded eastern portion has fewer lifeguards and normally some nudists. This beach is great for exercise like long walk at sunset.

Praia do Norte, located in Nazaré on Portugal's Silver Coast, is internationally famed for its colossal, world-record-breaking waves generated by the unique Nazaré Canyon offshore. This underwater canyon amplifies Atlantic swell energy, creating waves that can reach up to 30 meters high, attracting the world's most daring big wave surfers like Garrett McNamara and Kelly Slater. Beyond the surfing spectacle, Praia do Norte offers a raw, wild beach atmosphere with a long stretch of golden sands bordered by rugged cliffs and dunes, providing stunning natural vistas and a less crowded beach experience even during peak seasons.

The beach is part of the charming fishing town of Nazaré, steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a blend of thrilling ocean activities and traditional Portuguese seaside charm. The iconic viewpoint at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo fortress, which also houses the Nazaré lighthouse, gives panoramic views of the ocean and surfing action, making it a must-visit spot for sightseers and photographers. Praia do Norte's dramatic landscape and powerful waves establish it as both a premier surfing destination and a beautiful coastal retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Despite the power of the waves and strong currents recommending this spot primarily for experienced surfers, the beach invites visitors year-round for walking, fishing, sunbathing, and hiking along its pristine, expansive shoreline. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sporting prestige makes Praia do Norte a unique and captivating destination.

Praia da Ursa is a beautiful, unique beach that is greatly appreciated for its amazing scenery. In order to reach this beach however, one is required to hike. Hence, Praia da Ursa is not accessible to those with limited abilities. Although difficult to reach, Praia da Ursa is one of the loveliest sceneries you will find.

This beach resides in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, which is renowned around the globe for its natural landscaping and beauty. Praia do Canal is composed of small, fine pebbles that makes for an excellent surface to relax on. Fishermen and surfers love the water for its perfect currents and crystal clear water.

Praia Dona Ana is a stunning beach located just south of the historic center of Lagos in the Algarve region of Portugal. Nestled within the limestone cliffs of the Ponta da Piedade headland, it offers breathtaking views of golden striated cliffs contrasted against crystal-clear turquoise waters. This scenic cove, approximately 160 meters long, is surrounded by eroded cliffs that provide shelter from sea breezes, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere ideal for relaxation and family visits.

Praia Dona Ana is known for its soft sands and calm sea, making it especially suitable for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely exploration of rock formations. It is easily accessible by foot from Lagos’s town center or by local transport services including a tourist road train and the 'A Onda' bus, enhancing its appeal as a convenient yet picturesque destination. The beach’s general vibe is serene but lively during peak seasons, with a relaxed ambiance that invites visitors to unwind while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings and well-maintained facilities.

This beach is a favorite spot for families due to its clean waters and sheltered environment, but it also attracts tourists seeking both quiet contemplation and water-based activities. Its combination of natural beauty, calm waters, and nearby amenities makes Praia Dona Ana an iconic Algarve beach with broad appeal.

Praia do Creiro is a stunning beach nestled along the Arrábida coast near Setúbal, Portugal. Known for its crystalline waters and scenic sheltered cove, it offers visitors a peaceful and naturally beautiful seaside escape. The beach is flanked by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, providing a spectacular contrast to the clear blue Atlantic. Praia do Creiro is ideal for those seeking tranquility in a picturesque setting, away from the bustle of city life. Its location within the Arrábida Natural Park enhances its appeal for nature lovers and those interested in exploring the region's unique flora and fauna.

The beach features a gently sloping shoreline with fine sand and is praised for its clean environment and well-maintained coastal area. Despite its popularity during summer months, it maintains a laid-back and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors often comment on the relatively calm waters, making it suitable for swimming and relaxation. Its unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility makes Praia do Creiro a memorable destination for locals and tourists alike, embodying the serene charm of the Setúbal district.

With its proximity to the historical town of Setúbal and the spectacular Arrábida hills, the beach provides not only a place for sun and sea but also serves as a gateway to exploring Portugal’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Enjoy the natural beauty on all sides at this beach, with crashing waves and rolling terrain inland. Great for surfing or relaxing, Praia da Bordeira lets you immerse yourself in nature but at a cost. Limited amenities exist on the beach, but restaurants and restrooms are a relatively short walk away. Make sure to take walks on the boardwalk to the west of the beach for great views.

Praia do Amado is nestled in the picturesque Costa Vicentina region of Algarve, Portugal, near the village of Carrapateira. Known for its consistent waves, the beach is a haven for surfers, especially during winter when the waves are at their most powerful. The area offers a serene and secluded ambiance, making it suitable for families as well. In the summer, lifeguards are present, ensuring a safe environment for visitors. The beach offers basic amenities like parasols for rent, though options may be limited due to its remote location.
Surrounded by untouched landscapes, Praia do Amado provides breathtaking views and an opportunity to connect with nature. The beach's isolation also means that it remains less crowded than more popular areas, offering a tranquil retreat for those seeking peace amidst stunning natural beauty.
Local attractions include hiking trails and natural history museums, enriching the visitor's experience beyond the beach itself.

Praia de Afife, located near Ancora in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, is a tranquil beach known for its picturesque landscape. The area is dotted with a few restaurants and hotels, offering a cozy retreat for visitors. The beach itself is not heavily commercialized, providing a serene atmosphere perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach experience. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like the waves at Praia da Arda or participate in local activities such as surfing and hiking in the surrounding regions.
The atmosphere is laid-back, with a strong focus on outdoor activities like kayaking and beach walks. The absence of large crowds makes it an ideal spot for family outings or quiet relaxation.
While it is not as bustling as other beaches in the region, Praia de Afife offers a unique blend of tranquility and natural beauty.

Praia da Comporta, part of the Estuário do Sado Nature Reserve, is a pristine beach on the southern tip of the Tróia Peninsula, an hour south of Lisbon. Known for its vast golden sands, turquoise waters, and untouched dune landscapes, it combines natural beauty with laid-back sophistication. The beach’s chic yet unpretentious vibe attracts both affluent visitors and nature lovers, offering a serene escape with minimalist beach bars and seafood shacks serving ultra-fresh catches[1][2][5].

Surrounded by pine forests and protected dunes, this Blue Flag-certified beach maintains an ecological balance while providing amenities. Its lively waves make it a hotspot for kite surfing, while the expansive shoreline ensures ample space for sunbathing. Visitors often compare Comporta to the Hamptons, citing its understated luxury and proximity to Lisbon as key draws[2][3][5].